NXSTonTour 2026 Insights

Small Business Month is coming to an end, and we've spend the month traveling the country, attending events, and celebrating small businesses for #NXSTonTour. Enjoy a few key takeaways below.

1. Economic development leadership is becoming more local: 
Economic growth is about people + place. What works in one region won’t translate directly to another. States, counties, and regional coalitions are actively leading – taking charge of their economic destiny in this time of change.  

2. America is reshoring, onshoring, nearshoring, and friendshoring: 
“Made in America” is widespread and long-lasting, one of the core pillars upon which leadership across the political spectrum agree - and it will only work if small businesses are prepared to play a major role. We must help those businesses access the capital, contracts, information, and relationships they need to be ready, because this moment can be a real opportunity for inclusive growth. 
 
3. We must talk about AI and technology: 
AI is already helping businesses operate more efficiently and serve customers differently. It’s a huge opportunity for productivity and competitiveness, and those of us serving small businesses can work to lessen the risk that many small business owners face of being left behind without digital capabilities